Worksheet on The History Boys: Homosexuality
English
GCSE
0 questions
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About This Worksheet
A worksheet analysing themes of homosexuality in The History Boys, focusing on grammar and literary techniques for GCSE students.
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Worksheet on The History Boys: Homosexuality
Subject: EnglishGrade: GCSE
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Untitled Worksheet
Grade GCSE
A
Introduction and Context
In Alan Bennett's 'The History Boys', the theme of homosexuality is subtly woven through dialogue and character interactions. The scene focuses on a tense exchange between two characters, Hector and Dakin, set against the backdrop of a British grammar school in the 1980s. The dialogue reveals underlying tensions regarding sexuality, societal norms, and personal identity. Bennett employs understated language and poignant pauses, such as 'He paused before continuing,' to build atmosphere. The phrase 'hidden truths' encapsulates the characters' internal struggles. The play's exploration of homosexual themes is nuanced, reflecting the social attitudes of the time while fostering a sensitive portrayal of complex emotions.
1.
Identify one literary technique used in the scene summary to create atmosphere.
[2 marks]2.
What is the significance of the phrase 'hidden truths' in the context of the subtopic?
[2 marks]3.
Analyze how Bennett's use of understated language contributes to the portrayal of characters' emotions.
[8 marks]4.
Which dialogue phrase indicates a character's attempt to subtly reveal their feelings?
[2 marks]5.
Choose the correct option: The phrase 'understated language' mainly suggests that the language used is:
[1 mark]Aa) Overly dramatic
Bb) Subtle and restrained
Cc) Literal and straightforward
Dd) Colloquial and informal
6.
Explain how the character Dakin's dialogue hints at his internal conflict regarding his sexuality.
[8 marks]7.
Identify a grammatical feature Bennett employs to emphasise pauses or hesitation in dialogue.
[2 marks]8.
Create a short dialogue exchange between Hector and Dakin that subtly hints at their feelings, using at least two techniques identified in earlier questions.
[8 marks]9.
In your own words, describe how Bennett's subtle language impacts the audience's understanding of the characters' inner lives.
[3 marks]10.
Evaluate the effectiveness of using pauses ('He paused before continuing') in conveying unspoken tension.
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Details
- Created
- 12/31/2025
- Updated
- 12/31/2025
- Type
- worksheet